TriMet Transit Police and the Metropolitan Explosive Disposal Unit determined on March 17 that a suspicious object found with a man at the Interstate/Rose Quarter MAX Station did not contain any energized or explosive materials.
The incident began around 8:15 a.m. when deputies from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, leading agency for Transit Police, were conducting patrols near the Moda Center in North Portland. While on board a MAX train, they contacted Jeremy Stavinoha, 42, for an administrative rule violation. Stavinoha initially cooperated but later attempted to leave during the investigation and was stopped by deputies.
Deputies allege that Stavinoha had a cylinder-like object in his possession and made statements that raised concerns about public safety. Due to the object’s appearance and proximity to critical infrastructure, authorities established a safe zone and called in the Metropolitan Explosive Disposal Unit (MEDU). A K-9 deputy trained in explosive detection also responded.
MEDU used X-ray technology to examine the approximately eight-inch tube and found metal spheres inside. After securing the object and completing safety procedures, MEDU determined it contained several steel balls but no explosives or energized materials. Law enforcement cleared the scene around 10:15 a.m., allowing TriMet to resume regular bus and MAX service through the area.
Stavinoha was booked into Multnomah County Detention Center on charges including first-degree disorderly conduct, interfering with public transportation, resisting arrest, and possession of a hoax destructive device. The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office thanked PPB, MEDU, and TriMet for their assistance.
According to officials, MEDU is composed of law enforcement officers trained to handle chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive threats in the Portland metropolitan area. The TriMet Transit Police Division is led by MCSO as a multi-agency team ensuring safety across transit systems in Multnomah, Washington, and Clackamas counties.